Playhouse set to begin renovations

The Des Moines Community Playhouse will begin renovations later this year, officials with the group said Thursday.

The first phase of renovations will address immediate structural issues with the foundation of the building at 831 42nd St., and also add more parking and make the building more visually appealing.

The Playhouse has raised $3.4 million for phase one. Donations include $500,000 from Bankers Trust Co. and Ruan Family Foundation; $350,000 from Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino; $300,000 from Principal Financial Group Inc.; and $250,000 from the Gardner and Florence Call Cowles Foundation.

Campaign chairpersons Debbie Hubbell, Gerry Neugent and Kim Walker have moved into phase two, with the goal of raising $5 million by the fall.

The renovations, expected to cost a total of $10 million, include a new lobby, streamlined public spaces, a revitalized mainstage theater, more parking and a new education wing.